Make learning an adventure for local young people – Volunteer once a month with the Hackney & Haringey Pirates

We Salute You – Young Pirates and Volunteer Crewmates. Photograph: Hackney Pirates

The Haringey & Hackney Pirates are an innovative education charity supporting young people aged 9-13 to develop the literacy, confidence and perseverance that will help them achieve both in school and the world beyond.

In our unconventional learning spaces (pirate ship-themed buildings in Tottenham and Dalston), young people work on reading and creative writing projects with one-to-one support from volunteers. The Young Pirates collaborate with professionals to publish their writing in the form of storybooks, studio recordings and films which are premiered in a local cinema.

On average our Young Pirates improve their reading age 52% faster than age-related expectations – so in nine months aboard our ship they make an average of 14 months’ progress.

Volunteer Crewmates are central to our project, and we are looking to take on 250 new recruits as we expand to support more and more children across Haringey and Hackney. We welcome volunteers of all ages and backgrounds who are interested in supporting local young people.